Method and apparatus for conducting structural health monitoring in a cryogenic, high vibration environment
US8347722B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 8, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 23, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/0258
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Sensors affixed to various such structures, where the sensors can withstand, remain affixed, and operate while undergoing both cryogenic temperatures and high vibrations. In particular, piezoelectric single crystal transducers are utilized, and these sensors are coupled to the structure via a low temperature, heat cured epoxy. This allows the transducers to monitor the structure while the engine is operating, even despite the harsh operating conditions. Aspects of the invention thus allow for real time monitoring and analysis of structures that operate in conditions that previously did not permit such analysis. A further aspect of the invention relates to use of piezoelectric single crystal transducers. In particular, use of such transducers allows the same elements to be used as both sensors and actuators.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.